Mover's Tips

One month before moving

  • Get quotes from a few removal companies and remember to include ones in the area to which you are moving.
  • Plan your packing, throw out any items you no longer need or use and don't forget to clear out your shed, garage, cellar or attic.
  • Check if your home contents insurance covers you for the actual move.
  • Arrange with the Post Office for your mail to be redirected to your new home.

One week before moving

  • If you have any children or pets ask a family member or friend to look after them on the move day.
  • Send your change of address cards to friends and family. Do remember to notify council tax departments, the Inland Revenue, the DSS (if applicable) and any insurance companies that handle your buildings, car, pension or life insurance. You should also inform your doctor, dentist, optician and your employer. The DVLA also require by law for you to have the correct address on your driving license.
  • Call your telephone, gas and electricity suppliers to arrange a final account.
  • Cancel any milk or paper bills and settle any outstanding monies due.
  • Only buy essential food items and plan your meals to use up existing food stocks.

The day before moving

  • Empty, defrost and dry out the fridge and freezer.
  • Draw up a plan to give the removal firm showing where you would like your furniture. Label boxes and tea chests showing which room they should be put in.
  • Put together a survival kit in a handy box. The pack should contain a kettle, mugs, milk, tea and coffee, biscuits, cleaning cloths, dustpan and brush, torch, fuses, loo paper, candles, matches, spare jumpers and telephone numbers of the local take away. A bottle of wine or champagne must be at the ready together with a corkscrew and glasses.
  • If you are leaving the carpets in your old home, put down plastic sheeting to protect them during the move.
  • Put some cash, your credit cards and your cheque book in a safe but convenient place. Lock any jewellery or small valuable items in the boot of your car.

Moving day

  • Take a note of the meter readings to give the gas and electricity boards.
  • Once the van has been loaded, walk around the house with the foreman and ensure nothing has been left behind.
  • Give the foreman directions to your new home and agree an approximate arrival time.
  • Once everything has been unloaded and unpacked at the other end, check that everything has arrived safely.

For more information please contact Ronnie Sembay.